Rooney was limping heavily as he left Old Trafford after the victory over Liverpool, leading to suggestions that he might have aggravated the injury that has dogged him this month.

United's players were given a day off yesterday, bar those reporting for treatment.

Rooney was not among those seeking the attention of the club's medical staff but with crucial games against Bayern Munich and Chelsea next week, it is understood that Alex Ferguson is considering resting his 33-goal top scorer at the Reebok.

Ferguson has challenged his players to win all of their remaining games in order to secure the club's 19th league championship.

Meanwhile, Michael Owen, who underwent surgery to repair a detached hamstring on March 8, has confirmed that he will not be fit until pre-season training due to the severity of his injury.